Fleewinter

Located in the heart of Luang Prabang, besides one of the town’s most famous Buddhist temples is Victoria Xiengthong Palace, the last residence of the Laos Royal Family. This beautiful boutique property has been lovingly restored to its former glory, and once more sits proudly on the banks of the Mekong River.

The 26 elegantly appointed rooms and suites capture the essence of Laos’ unique culture and style, with local materials and fabrics used throughout. There are four different room types, the Palace Rooms are the entry-level rooms offering a spacious and smart room but the next level up, the Victoria Suite is well worth the upgrade in our opinion - the design is fabulous with a funky, carved headboard on the bed dividing the sleeping space from the living space and these rooms also have a balcony or terrace - some with features of the water feature which sits centre stage in the grounds.

The Grand Villa Suite is a duplex apartment with a private jacuzzi and garden downstairs. As UNESCO heritage protection rules mean there can be no swimming pools in the ancient town this is the perfect option for those who want the luxury of a pool - and wish to stay in the old town. The small plunge pool is inside but double French doors lead out onto a garden. Upstairs you will find the bedroom and living area. Finally, the Mekong Suite is ideal for a family - it has a living room and bedroom and you could fit up to five people in it if you had a family with small children.

Spacious and elegant, all rooms are air-conditioned and feature textured walls and a flat-screen TV. An iPod dock, minibar and free bottled water are provided. En suite bathrooms have a bathtub and separate shower.

At the time of visiting, the hotel was considering converting its amazing spa rooms into bedrooms, which would be fabulous as they are the only rooms with river views and balconies facing the river, despite the hotel being located on the edge of the Mekong River.

Kitchen by the Mekong restaurant serves excellent wine and international dishes. Outdoor garden dining is available upon request.